Underground cables, pipes and wires can be anywhere, even in places that you least expect it to be. Thanks to rapid urbanisation, there is a constant need to install new cables and wires for buried services. This means that the original site map quickly becomes outdated as there are new installations to cater to the increasing needs. So, engineers and contractors cannot begin digging the ground for construction or any purpose without carrying out a thorough survey of the place. It is crucial to take the necessary precautions so that cable strikes do not occur. In the UK, there are already a number of reported accidents and injuries during its 60,000 yearly cable strikes.

In order to carry out an in-depth survey of a site before excavation, two main tools are used - CAT & Genny. These two equipment can accurately detect and locate underground utility services. Whilst CAT is able to locate the wires and cables that are live, Genny helps to put a signal on the utility services that are not live. Together, these two tools are able to find almost all the buried services. However, the problem is that most surveyors do not have the required knowledge and expertise to use these tools. This is why cable strikes happen. But, by undertaking a CAT course from a reliable and professional training provider, contractors or engineers will be able to create a safe working environment for the workers.

Typically, a CAT course covers the following topics:

 The dangers and costs of cable strikes

 An overview of the equipment so that you know the use and limitations of the cable avoidance tools

 Location techniques, modes and its limitations

 Depth location

 The different types of underground services and the dangers associated with them

 HSG 47 and a safe working system

 The use of sondes and accessories

After the completion of the CAT training course, you will have the expertise needed to use cable avoidance tools. You will be able to carry out a proper survey and know exactly which areas you should avoid when digging the ground. Also, you will create a secure and safe environment for your workers. Below given are some of the ways that the course will help you and your workers.

Prevention of worker injuries

Cable strikes are notorious for causing serious and even fatal injuries to those working on-site. For instance, your workers might get severe burns if they accidentally hit an electrical cable. They might even be seriously hurt in case of a gas explosion as a result of hitting a gas pipe. Even hitting sewage pipes can make the environment unsafe for your workers.

By knowing how to use the CAT, you will be in a position to prevent such situations. You can avoid those areas where utility services are located and instil confidence in your workers that they are safe.

Avoid extra cost and loss of reputation

Along with making it a safe workplace for your workers, undertaking a CAT course will help you to avoid extra expenses that come with striking a cable. There might be instances when a cable strike does not result in any kind of injury, but the utility services will be disabled for a period of time. It will need repair or replacement. This will cost money and as a contractor, you might have to bear the expenses. You might also have to offer compensation to the buildings in and around the excavation area whose services are gone temporarily. All of this will even result in loss of reputation for your company. But, using cable avoidance tools can prevent such situations.

Now that you know the importance and necessity of CAT, all you have to do is get enrolled for a CAT training programme. Ensure to undertake a course that is being offered by a professional company. The course should be a combination of both theoretical and practical training.